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In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

Interest in precision working to adjust components to revised tolerances and to test instruments using electrical and electronic test equipment, micrometers, pressure gauges and vacuum-pump testers

METHODICAL

Interest in testing instruments to ensure that they conform to operating specifications

innovative

Interest in analyzing data from equipment tests to diagnose causes of instrument malfunctions

Reading Interest Codes

A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.

Interest in precision working to test, overhaul, repair and modify electrical systems and equipment

METHODICAL

Interest in measuring voltage, current and resistance at specified locations when troubleshooting faults

innovative

Interest in analyzing data from observations of equipment in operation, by examinations of parts and from results of electrical tests, to diagnose faults

Reading Interest Codes

A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.

Interest in precision working to modify, adjust and test avionics systems and equipment

METHODICAL

Interest in ensuring that installation, maintenance, repair and overhaul of avionics systems meet established specifications

innovative

Interest in analyzing data from observations of equipment in operation, by examinations of parts and from results of electronic tests, to troubleshoot faults

Reading Interest Codes

A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective and Social.

Avionics are the electrical and electronic systems on aircraft. Examples include communications, navigation and guidance systems.

Avionics technicians inspect, install, configure, repair, maintain and certify avionics. They may use drafting, design, and drawing software such as CADD programs when planning changes to aircraft systems.

Avionics technicians:

keep installed avionics in good working order

maintain and test systems in labs.

They may help others:

install, interface with, configure and modify systems

write technical documents

work with customers

make basic sheet metal parts

update many types of aircraft technical records

resolve problems with electrical, electromechanical and electronic parts and systems

follow and keep track of quality control guidelines.

Avionics technicians may work as part of a team or alone. They may take charge of a project, lab or specific system.

Working Conditions

Updated Mar 31, 2018

Avionics technicians work in labs, hangars and outdoors. They often work in small spaces inside aircraft. They may work shifts. They sometimes work out of the country and may be away from home for a few days, a year or even more.

Strength Required
Lift up to 20 kg

Skills & Abilities

Updated Mar 31, 2018

Avionics technicians need to possess:

good writing and speaking skills

an ability to work alone and with others

an interest in taking more training as needed

good math skills

patience for solving problems

good colour vision

good skills with their hands.

They should enjoy analyzing complex data and using tools for precise tasks. They should be able to follow clear rules. They should be organized.

Educational Requirements

Updated Mar 31, 2018

In Alberta, avionics technicians need a related 2-year diploma from an institute of technology.

Certified Technician

Under general supervision, certified technicians routinely apply industry-recognized codes, standards, procedures and practices. They use established engineering, geoscience or applied science principles and methods to solve problems. Duties may include testing, troubleshooting, inspecting, calibrating, drafting, maintaining, modelling, compiling, surveying, ensuring quality control, supervising in the field and working in sales.

To find work, graduates of avionics programs may need to move to small or remote locations, such as in the north.

Most avionics technicians work with:

airlines

general aviation companies

federal transportation departments

the Canadian Armed Forces

ground-based communications and navigation organizations

maintenance, repair and overhaul companies

aircraft manufacturers.

Most companies have training programs to help workers improve their skills. Most technicians find work in their specialty. Some become supervisors or managers.

Avionics technicians are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 2244: Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors. In Alberta, 87% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

Swipe left and right to view all data.Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

D: Lowest Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

Lowest Reliability, represents a CV of more than 33.00% and/or if fewer than 10 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 25% of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Updated Mar 31, 2018. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.